The J. Taylor Finley Middle School field hockey team has a new coach this fall and many new players on the roster.
Finley physical education teacher Marissa Bergmann has assumed the position of head coach following the retirement of Nancy Conlon. The new sideline mentor has been busy recruiting players for the team. The original turnout was small, but several seventh and eighth graders have since stepped forward to swell the size of the team to 15 players.
“We have a great group of girls who are all enthusiastic and a pleasure to work with each day,” Bergmann said. “We are building up interest in the program. Everyone is welcome to join. It’s still not too late.”
The squad includes seventh graders Amelia Carino, Chloe Donovan, Lauren Dopico, Madelyn Faulk, Deveren Flynn, Sophie Hoffman, Mia Johnson Elliot Manu and Emma Sobocienski; and eighth graders Gianna Anfolisi, Kennedy Banner, Emily Barba, Katie Cocoman, Domenica Elgart and Sofia VanArsdale.
Finley will play a 10 game schedule with home and away games against Commack, Stimson, East Northport, Candlewood and Northport.
“It’s been fun working the girls, teaching them the game of field hockey, working out and exercising and enjoying each other’s company after school,” Bergmann said. “The winning will come and take care of itself. Right now the goal is to become better players at each practice and have fun while doing it. I think everyone is succeeding.”